This in-depth look at database management systems (DBMS) for microcomputers covers data entry, information retrieval, security, DBMS software and design, and downloading of literature search results. The advantages of in-house systems versus online search vendors are discussed, and specifications of three software packages and 14 sources are…

Outlines the structure, activities, and publications of the United Nations and some of its specialized agencies. (PF)

Describes three current two-way public information systems representing the major technologies which are being proposed as international standards: Prestel (United Kingdom), Teletel (France), and Telidon (Canada). Information retrieval structures are compared, and difficulties for both the information provider and the information user are…

Trends in online searching are discussed in terms of how end users continue to change role of the librarian and information specialist. Identification and description of end users, user-friendly information retrieval systems, front-end software packages, and current and potential developments in end user searching are covered. Ten readings are…

Creates a scenario for potential future publication of journals in electronic online form, from report writing and text editing at individual terminals to acceptance via electronic mail by publishers to receipt of journal information at subscribers' terminals. (SW)

This overview of PRECIS indexing system use by the National Film Board of Canada covers reasons for its choice, challenge involved in subject analysis and indexing of audiovisual documents, the methodology and software used to process PRECIS records, the resulting catalog subject indexes, and user reaction. Twenty-one references are cited. (EJS)

This article outlines the technological developments that have taken place in the online information field and their effects on the role of librarians as information intermediaries. Discussion covers changing technologies; products (data bank switch, electronic publishing and full-text databases, user friendly access and end user searching); and…

Provides a detailed examination of COMPULINE, British Columbia's telephone reference service designed to assist librarians, archivists, and other information professionals in their use of microcomputer hardware and software by referring them to others in the province who have relevant experience. Expenses, problems encountered, and possible…

Describes automated library network developed when five municipal library systems entered into an equal partnership to create single database and to jointly own a computerized circulation and MARC records system. Highlights include use of microcomputers, the shared circulation system, costs, benefits, governance, equality, stability and financial…

Description of national computerized information system for Canadian audiovisual material--FORMAT--highlights its development and management by National Film Board of Canada, system developments during past 4 years, system design and standards, database sources, and database processing (building database with UTLAS, cataloging, access to database,…